How Can We Tackle a Growing COVID-19-caused Mental Health Crisis?

In ‘ordinary’ times, good mental health is fundamental for overall wellbeing. But when we are all stalked by fear and uncertainty caused by COVID-19, access to good mental health support is more important than ever. It is life-saving. There is mounting evidence that this Coronavirus is taking a heavy toll on the mental health of people in Asia and across the globe.

At the global level, a major review of 36 studies across the world has found that around one in three people are suffering from stress, anxiety or depression during this pandemic, while recent modelling suggests that unemployment caused by COVID-19 may lead to almost 10,000 additional suicides a year.

A new survey by the International Committee of the Red Cross in seven countries, including the Philippines, shows that one in two adults believe their mental health has been negatively affected by COVID-19. It is also alarming that latest World Health Organisation (WHO) figures reveal the pandemic has interrupted or suspended mental health support services in 93% of countries.